About ascorbic acid
Vitamin C (water-soluble vitamin)
Used for
- Treating vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) when oral treatment is unsuitable.
- Short-term supplementation when vitamin C cannot be taken or absorbed orally.
Usual adult dose
For scurvy, commonly 200–500 mg by injection daily for about one week; dosing varies by product and clinical need.
Usual dose in children
For scurvy, doses are age- and weight-dependent; specialist guidance is needed.
Common side effects
- Pain or irritation at the injection site
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
- Flushing or dizziness
- Kidney stones with high or prolonged doses
Important warnings
- High doses can increase kidney stone risk, especially with kidney disease.
- Use caution with iron overload disorders; vitamin C can increase iron absorption.
- Rapid intravenous administration may cause faintness or nausea.
- Long-term high doses can cause problems when stopped suddenly.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically needed; high doses should be avoided unless prescribed.
Breastfeeding
Vitamin C normally occurs in breast milk; medicinal doses should be clinically appropriate.
Interactions
- May increase iron absorption.
- Can interfere with some laboratory tests, including glucose tests.
- May reduce warfarin effectiveness with large, prolonged doses.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.